Evidence of a ‘dry drunk’
It’s well documented that Donald Trump grew up in a high-stressed dyfunctional family characterized by tyranical father Fred’s unpredictable rageful behavior. Thus the basic human needs for safety, security, nurturing and recognition weren’t consistently met. Family member Mary Trump, a clinical psychologist, has described this family legacy in detail. Past and present White House staff have reported on Donald’s patterns of troubled behavior and attitude. In fact, the current chief of staff recently referred to Donald’s “alcoholic personality,” although he doesn’t apparently drink.
During my 37-year career as a masters level licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor I’d often observed so-called “dry drunks” who kept the cork in the bottle, yet grossly mis-managed life. Also there were many who never drank, although they’d mirror alcoholic-like behavior such as gross self-centeredness, lack of empathy for hurting others, impulsive grandiose personalities, along with denial, defensiveness and self-delusion.
In the best of times being a President, even without a lot of unresolved family baggage, is typically high-stress. Thus, with the deparately painful Trump legacy a Shakespeare-level tragedy is now being played out on the world stage, and we’re all suffering!!